Legal Question in Family Law in Arizona

I'm in the middle of a divorce and my current lawyer has given me cause to worry. I am honestly concerned about his mental health. He gets all my information mixed up and asked for the same things over and over. At first I thought he was just disorganized or not listening but when I went to the courthouse for the hearing for temporary support he was sitting outside the courtroom visiting with my husbands lawyer and when I approached he looked at me for a good 4-5 seconds before he even recognized me and he was expecting me. It was very ackward. He then introduced me to my husbands lawyer and I excused myself to use the restroom which was just steps away. Upon my return not more than 5 minutes later he introduced me again to the same women as if the first introduction never happened. Needless to say the hearing did not go well. He had my information confused so when he questioned my while I was on the witness stand a lot of opportunity to convince the judge of my side of things were missed. My husband got away with hiding bank accounts and lying about his income because my lawyer never got the information on the accounts that I had asked him numerous times to get. I have made a few attempts to contact other lawyers but have gotten no response. I have heard that lawyers are very reluctant to jump into a case that another lawyer has already started. Is this true? After all that has happened with my current lawyer I know I just can't trust with the final settlement. This is my only shot for a decent future for my children and myself. I am concerned that I will not be able to find another attorney to continue my case for me.


Asked on 4/14/13, 7:20 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Monica Donaldson Stewart Donaldson Stewart, P.C.

If you are not comfortable with your lawyer's representation, I definitely recommend that you consult with another attorney (or more than one) to find someone that you are confident can assist you with the rest of your case. It is difficult to tell from your inquiry the current status of your case - you mentioned temporary orders but also a final settlement, so I urge you to seek advice sooner rather than later. Many law firms, including ours, offer a free initial consultation.

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Answered on 4/14/13, 8:12 pm
Carlie Owsley Walker The Owsley Law Firm, PLLC

I agree you should immediately attempt to seek new counsel. We offer free consultations and woud be happy to discuss your case with you either by phone or in person.

623-748-8973

Carlie Owsley Walker

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Answered on 4/15/13, 6:07 am
Scott Stewart Stewart Law Group

If you aren't satisfied with your current representation, I recommend you seek a new attorney to represent you in your case. While the current status of your case is unclear, it is pertinent that you meet with another attorney as soon as possible so that you can develop a new plan of action. As long as final orders have not been entered, you still have the opportunity to present your case effectively. Please feel free to contact us at 602-548-3400 so that we can discuss your matter in further detail.

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Answered on 4/16/13, 9:11 am


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